residual

The machine that turned 100 percent lead into an ore that was now 80 percent gold and 20 percent lead would accept the residual lead and turn 80 percent of that into gold, too.

“And there’s been a lot of reasons for why this process takes so long. But, from a radiological perspective, the actual residual radioactivity at the site is pretty modest.”

M&S said in the second half of the year it forecast profits would recover to the levels seen in 2024, "as the residual effects of the incident continue to reduce in the coming months."

The group forecast that its second-half profit would be "at least in line with last year, as the residual effects of the incident continue to reduce in the coming months".

A spokesperson added: "In reaching this decision, we carefully considered all available evidence to ensure that residual waste is managed appropriately, in line with government policy and with the lowest possible carbon impact."